As the oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaii chain, Kauai’s dramatic beauty defies categorizing. Waiting to be explored are several unequalled geographical features such as tropical rain forests, lush emerald valleys, cascading waterfalls and freshwater pools, reddish lava beds and 50 miles of spectacular golden beach.

Inspired by Kauai’s beauty dozens of filmmakers have used the island as a backdrop for epic movies such as Avatar, Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Pirates of the Caribbean, and South Pacific to name just a few.

The Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon begin in Poipu, a world-class resort community at the southern end of the island, and follow the contour of the coastline, with spectacular views of the ocean and beaches, volcanic peaks and tropical rain forests.

The courses also feature a gradual climb to the cool shade of the century-old Tunnel of Trees, a one-mile canopy of lush eucalyptus trees that tower 100 feet above the ground and create a grand entrance to Kauai’s south shore. Both events are walker-friendly, with an event time limit of 7 and ½ hours.

Image via Justin Donnelly

Image via Mr Thomas

Image via Mr Thomas

Image via Blue Waikiki

Kauai Hike

In addition to the marathon, Team Diabetes is also excited to offer a one-day hike that will take you off the beaten path to some of Kauai’s most beautiful vistas. Hikers will be led on an expertly guided tour and provided with the opportunity to trek various distances up to 16km.

REQUIREMENTS

The requirements for both events will be a fundraising minimum of $6 100.

What you get in return is immeasurable.

Yes, there is help with your training, and guaranteed race registration, as well as airport transfers, accommodations, and round trip airfare. There is a welcome reception, pre race pasta party, and a victory dinner. But you’ll also meet people from across the country with amazing stories to tell. You’ll share your story as you train, and fundraise, bringing awareness to the fight the Canadian Diabetes Association is leading in the name of the 9 million Canadians affected by diabetes and pre-diabetes.